Replacing a cracked or broken piece of tile isn’t as difficult of a project as you may think. Often, the most difficult part is trying to find an appropriate match. If you have a match to replace the damaged piece of tile then all you will need is a few tools and materials to get started. You will need a chisel or putty knife, hammer, float , nailset, tile adhesive, grout sealer and a small bag of grout. Once you have these items you are ready to start.

1. Remove all the grout from around the broken piece of tile using a chisel or putty knife and a hammer. Make sure not to damage the surrounding tile when removing the grout.

2. Wearing eye protection, use a hammer and a nailset to punch a hole in the center of the damaged tile. Be careful not to crack any of the surrounding tiles, and avoid driving the nailset into the material underneath.

3. Using a glass cutter score an X across the face of the tile from corner to corner.

4. Use your hammer and chisel and begin to lightly tap on the tile starting at the center breaking away the damaged piece of tile.

5. Remove all the pieces of the broken tile. Using a putty knife to scrape the area clean of all remaining debris. There will usually be quite a bit of debris remaining so make certain to scrape the area well.

6. Prime the surface using a latex primer and allow it to fully dry.

7. Once the primer has fully dried, test fit the new tile in the opening. It should have an equal gap on all sides and must also be flush to the surrounding surfaces.

8. Apply the adhesive to the back of the tile and immediately place it into the area that is being repaired. Make sure to use even force using both hands, gently twisting the tile until it is level with the surrounding tile.

9. Using masking tape or blue painters tape, tape the new piece of tile to the surrounding area and allow it to set up for 8-12 hours before going to the next step.

10. Remove the tape and clean around the replaced tile again to be sure that no dust or debris have accumulated in the gaps.

11. Mix up the grout according the manufacturers directions. Take the float and load it with the grout that you have just mixed. Spread the grout over the repaired area making sure to push it into the gaps. Scrape away all excess grout by holding your float at an angle, making sure the grout is smooth and even. Allow the grout to set up for about 2 hours before going to the next step.

12. Remove all of the excess grout using a damp sponge. Rinse out the sponge often and keep it clean. Allow the grout to dry for at least 24 hours before exposing it to any water.

13. After 3-4 days the grout should be cured. You should now apply a grout sealer to the fresh grout. Grout sealer is readily available at most hardware stores.

Replacing a broken tile is a pretty simple task and most homeowner should have no problem.

The author is the owner of Pigeon Forge Painting in Pigeon Forge Tennessee and has over twenty five years experience as a professional painting contractor. For more information visit
Pigeon Forge Painting

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